Simon Cowell may have been absent from the America’s Got Talent Season 21 finale, but he still found a way to send his support to the finalists — along with a playful warning for guest judge KSI.

Cowell, the longtime AGT judge and series creator, missed the first night of the two-part live finale on Tuesday, September 22, as he continues recovering from a routine procedure related to his back.

Host Terry Crews addressed Cowell’s absence during the broadcast and read a message the judge had sent to the contestants.

Simon Cowell Sends His Best Wishes From Home

Before reading the message, Crews told viewers that Cowell was missed by everyone at AGT.

Cowell’s note began with a message of support for the finalists, expressing his disappointment at not being able to attend the finale in person.

“Hello everyone, I wanted to wish all the finalists tonight the best of luck.”

He continued:

“I am so sad that I won’t be there in person, but I will be watching from home.”

Cowell then added a joke directed at KSI, who joined the judging panel for the live finale.

“And KSI, hold onto your water when Mel B is around.”

The comment referenced Mel B’s reputation for playful moments involving water during the show.

After reading the message, Crews sent Cowell his best wishes on behalf of the AGT team as the judge continues his recovery.

KSI Steps In For Cowell During The Finale

Cowell had previously been announced as absent from the two-night live finale after missing part of Season 21 while recovering from a routine back procedure.

The judge had been expected to take some time away from the NBC series earlier in the season. A spokesperson previously described the procedure as routine and said Cowell was expected to return after a few weeks.

For the live finale, KSI stepped in as a guest judge alongside Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara and Mel B.

The influencer, musician and boxer has also been a judge on Britain’s Got Talent since 2025.

Other guest judges appeared during the season, including Kenan Thompson and Heidi Klum.

Cowell Has Previously Missed AGT After Back Injury

Cowell’s current absence comes several years after he suffered a serious back injury in an electric-bike accident in Malibu in August 2020.

The accident caused Cowell to break his back in three places, and he underwent a five-hour operation. He subsequently missed part of America’s Got Talent Season 15.

Cowell later discussed the severity of the injury, saying that he had experienced long-term nerve damage and describing himself as lucky to have survived the ordeal.

He also previously referenced another bicycle accident in London that resulted in a broken arm and said the injury affected his recovery.

AGT Season 21 Finale Continues Wednesday

The Season 21 finale began Tuesday, September 22, with the finalists performing for America’s vote.

The second and final night of the finale is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, when the Season 21 winner will be revealed.

Although Cowell could not be in the studio for the finale, his message ensured that he remained part of the evening as the contestants competed for the season’s top prize.

Source: Compiled from various sources